In vitro Antioxidant activity analysis of five medicinally important plants

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species are the cause of different ailments such as cancer. The intake of foods rich in antioxidant compounds may prevent the occurrence of these diseases. Thus, antioxidants play important role in controlling the free radical disorders. In the present work, the antioxidant potential of 48 different extracts, fractions and pure compounds of five medicinally important plants was evaluated by using the DPPH method. Methyl gallate obtained from the Acalypha torta showed good antioxidant activity (EC50 = 2.3 g/ml). Vanillic acid isolated from Clerodendrum formicarum showed moderate antioxidant activity (EC50 = 50 g/ml). Acalypha segetalis and Erythrina were found inactive during the study (EC50 >200 g/ml). The above plants could provide rich supply of natural antioxidants and may possible preventive agents in ROS related ailments.